What's it like to be a single mom working from home?

Geraldine (27) is a single mother with a two year old child. As a single mom working from home, she knows better than most people what it's really like to balance work and family life.

So Geraldine, when did you start working from home?

One and a half years ago, when I was due to come back after maternity leave. Before I had Michael, I was working for the council in their office. It was a steady job with a decent wage.

What do you do?

I provide feedback and advice on websites to an internet consultancy firm.

Why did you choose to work from home?

I guess there were two main reasons. The first is that with all the council lay offs, I just didn't feel secure in my job anymore - and that is so important now that I've the little one. The second is that I get to spend more time with my son - I couldn't bear the thought of dropping him off at childcare for most of his waking hours.

How did you come across the job?

A friend actually emailed it to me. It was on some obscure internet consultancy firm's website - they were based in Canada and I had never heard them. I was a little sceptical at first but I Googled them and realised that they were genuine. I applied, did an online test and a phone interview. And then I started working!

How does the job fit in with your life?

It's completely flexible hours, so I work half of the time when Michael's sleeping - during his naps and after his bed time. I fit the other four hours in when I can - when he's playing alone, for example.